Daily Current Affairs : 21-August-2023
In recent news, the Therapeutic Goods Administration (TGA) of Australia has issued a warning to the public regarding the potential risk of liver injury associated with the consumption of medicines and herbal supplements containing turmeric or its active component, curcumin. This announcement follows the reception of 18 reports of liver-related issues among consumers who had used products containing curcuma longa (turmeric) and/or curcumin. In this essay, we will delve into the details of this warning, explore the safety of dietary turmeric consumption, and examine recommended safe consumption limits.
Reports of Liver Injury
The TGA’s alert is based on 18 reported cases of individuals experiencing liver problems after using products containing curcuma longa or curcumin. Nine of these cases provided enough information to suggest that the liver injury could be attributed to curcuma longa or curcumin. As a result, the TGA has concluded that there exists a “rare risk” of liver injury associated with the consumption of curcuma longa and/or curcumin in medicinal forms. Notably, individuals with pre-existing or previous liver issues appear to be at a higher risk of experiencing this uncommon adverse event.
Risk Assessment for Dietary Turmeric Consumption
However, it is important to note that the TGA’s warning does not extend to the consumption of curcuma longa in “typical” dietary amounts as a food ingredient. Turmeric is widely recognized as a staple in South and South East Asian cuisine, as well as an essential component of Ayurvedic and Chinese traditional medicine remedies.
Curcumin’s Therapeutic Potential
Numerous studies conducted over the past five decades have explored the properties of curcumin, highlighting its antioxidant characteristics that can aid in mitigating inflammation. Curcumin has been studied for its potential benefits in addressing conditions like arthritis and infections, thanks to its anti-inflammatory properties.
Recommended Safe Consumption Limits
To address concerns regarding curcumin consumption, various international organizations have established recommended safe limits. The European Food Safety Authority advises that a 60 kg adult can safely consume up to 180 mg of curcumin daily. Meanwhile, the World Health Organization and the Food and Agricultural Organization jointly recommend a limit of 3 mg of curcumin per kilogram of body weight. Notably, India’s Food Safety and Standards Authority of India has established standards for packaged turmeric, but it does not specify a recommended dietary allowance.
Important Points:
Risk of Liver Injury Associated with Turmeric and Curcumin:
- The Therapeutic Goods Administration (TGA) of Australia has issued a warning regarding the risk of liver injury linked to medicines and herbal supplements containing turmeric or curcumin.
Reports of Liver Injury:
- TGA received 18 reports of liver problems among consumers who used products containing turmeric or curcumin.
- Nine of these reports had sufficient information to suggest that curcumin products may have caused the liver injuries.
- The TGA concluded that there is a “rare risk” of liver injury from medicinal forms of curcuma longa and/or curcumin.
- People with existing or previous liver problems are more susceptible to this rare adverse event.
Safety of Dietary Turmeric:
- The TGA’s warning does not apply to the consumption of turmeric as a dietary ingredient in “typical” amounts in food.
- Turmeric is widely used in South and South East Asian cuisine and traditional medicine.
Curcumin’s Therapeutic Potential:
- Curcumin has antioxidant properties that can help reduce inflammation and is studied for its potential benefits in conditions like arthritis and infections.
Recommended Safe Consumption Limits:
- The European Food Safety Authority recommends an acceptable daily intake of 180 mg of curcumin for a 60 kg adult.
- The World Health Organization and Food and Agricultural Organization advise a limit of 3 mg of curcumin per kilogram of body weight.
- India’s Food Safety and Standards Authority has standards for packaged turmeric but doesn’t specify a recommended dietary allowance.
Why In News
Australia’s Therapeutic Goods Administration (TGA) has issued a stern advisory, cautioning Australians about the potential risk of liver injury associated with the consumption of medicines and herbal supplements containing turmeric or its active compound, curcumin. It is essential for individuals to exercise caution and consult healthcare professionals before incorporating such products into their wellness routines.
MCQs about Turmeric’s Liver Risks and Safe Consumption
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What prompted the Therapeutic Goods Administration (TGA) of Australia to issue a warning about turmeric and curcumin?
A. 18 reports of liver problems linked to turmeric and curcumin
B. A general concern about the safety of dietary turmeric
C. Reports of allergic reactions to curcumin
D. An increase in the price of turmeric supplements
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According to the TGA’s warning, who is more likely to develop a rare adverse event related to turmeric or curcumin?
A. Individuals with heart problems
B. People who have a history of liver issues
C. Those with a history of allergies
D. Athletes and fitness enthusiasts
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How does the TGA’s warning apply to the consumption of turmeric as a dietary ingredient?
A. Dietary turmeric is considered unsafe in any amount.
B. The warning applies only to turmeric consumed in very small amounts.
C. Turmeric in typical dietary amounts is generally safe.
D. Turmeric should be completely avoided in all forms.
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What is the recommended acceptable daily intake of curcumin for a 60 kg adult, as per the European Food Safety Authority?
A. 10 mg of curcumin
B. 100 mg of curcumin
C. 180 mg of curcumin
D. 500 mg of curcumin
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